Greenway

Greenways are similar to side paths in that they are 10 to 14-foot wide, paved paths designed to accommodate both pedestrians and bicycles. Whereas side paths are next to streets, Greenways are located along natural features, rail lines, or utility corridors. They generally have fewer road crossings and therefore fewer conflict points.

Greenway Positives

Scenic

Can create connections where none exist

Greenway Negatives

Side Path

Side Paths, also referred to as multi-use paths or shared-use paths, are 8 to 14 foot wide paved sidewalks designed to accommodate both bicycles and pedestrians. Like sidewalks, side paths are located next to streets, usually separated by landscaping. Remember, having a side path does not prevent any user from biking in the street. Side Paths are usually built when one or more of the following exist:

The adjacent street is narrow

The street has high traffic volumes and/or speeds

There are few street and driveway crossings

Bicycle and pedestrian traffic is expected to be high

Side Path Positives

Desirable for walkers, runners, youth and novice bicyclists, and recreation

Physical separation from motor vehicle traffic

Side Path Negatives

Bike Lane

A bike lane is a portion of the roadway that has been designated by striping, pavement markings, and signs for the exclusive use of bicyclists. Bike lanes allow cyclists to ride at a comfortable speed without interfering with other traffic. Bike lanes help to make drivers aware of bicyclists’ right to the street and facilitate predictable behavior and movements between cyclists and motorists. A bike lane is usually located adjacent to the vehicle travel lane on the right side of the street.

Bike Lane Positives

Separates different modes of traffic traveling at different speeds

Gives bikes dedicated space to follow the correct traffic pattern

Bike Lane Negatives

No physical barrier between bike and motor vehicle traffic

Can feel less comfortable than separated paths

Sharrow

A “Sharrow” or Shared Lane Marking is a painted bicycle symbol and two chevrons on the travel lane. Bikes are allowed to use any street, but sharrows indicate an area where bicycle use is especially heavy. They are commonly used in cases where a street cannot accommodate a bike lane. Sharrows can also be used to show the recommended positioning of cyclists in a restricted area like an intersection.

Sharrow Positives

Alert motorists to the potential for cyclists

Reinforce the legitimacy of bicycle traffic in the travel lane

Sharrow Negatives

No separation between bike and motor vehicle traffic

Signed Route

Signed bicycle routes are streets or roads that are recommended for use by both bicycle and motor vehicles without a designated facility. These routes are indicated exclusively by signage, and do not have a dedicated portion of pavement.

Types of Signs

Kosciusko County Bikeways

These signs identify bike routes in Kosciusko County. They were identified by the Kosciusko County Velo Cycling Club as recommended rides based on road conditions, scenic value, and destinations.

Share the Road

This sign is a simple reminder that bikes and automobiles have equal rights to the street and must respect each other’s use of the road.

Bikes May Use Full Lane

This sign is also a reminder to everyone that bikes have a right to as much space on the street as they need to ride safely.

Bike Route

This signifies a route as suitable for bike traffic.

Wayfinding

This sign points to a destination and usually gives a distance in miles.

Signed Route Positives

Can provide key connections to destinations and trails where additional separation is not possible or not currently available

Want to Help Out?

Are you looking for ways to get involved in improving the quality of life in your community? There are many opportunities to help in the ongoing effort to build a bicycle and pedestrian friendly community!